Joe Dumond, Broker
Sutton Group-Masters Realty Inc

DIY UPDATES FOR YOUR HOME

Updating your home with "Do It Yourself" projects is a great way to personalize your space and add value without spending a fortune.  Your efforts will pay off when it is time to sell.  Here are some easy and impactful updates to enhance your home’s look and functionality.

Paint

  • Walls: A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room. Choose neutral tones for a timeless look and the most appeal for resale.
  • Cabinets: Instead of replacing old kitchen or bathroom cabinets, sand and paint them to give them a modern refresh. Add new hardware for extra flair.
  • Pro Tip: Use quality painter’s tape to get clean lines and protect trim or adjacent surfaces.

Floors

  • If you have hardwood floors, refinishing them can restore their original beauty. You can rent a sander, apply new stain, and seal them to bring back their shine.
  • For a more affordable option, use wood floor polish or a restorer to freshen up dull floors.
  •  Peel-and-stick vinyl plank flooring is a great way to update the look of any room, especially if you’re on a budget. It’s durable, easy to clean, and relatively simple to install.

Lighting and Electrical

  • Replace outdated or generic light fixtures with modern ones to instantly elevate any room.
  • Consider installing dimmers to create mood lighting, especially in the dining room.
  • Update old or discolored switch plates and outlets to new ones in modern finishes.
  • Consider installing smart switches or USB outlets.
  • Upgrade your home with smart thermostats, security cameras, door locks, or lighting systems that can be controlled from your smartphone.

Faucets and Showerheads

  •  Swapping out old faucets in the kitchen or bathroom can modernize the space without major renovations.
  • Replace standard showerheads with rain showers or handheld options for a spa-like feel.

Maximize Storage

  • Use shelving units, bins, and baskets to maximize storage in your closets.
  • Add hanging rods, drawer systems, or adjustable shelving to create a custom closet without professional installation.
  • Use pre-made shelves or cabinetry to create built-in storage solutions. This works great for media units or in-home offices.

Curb Appeal and Outdoor Enhancements

  • Install a stylish new mailbox, door mat and potted flowering plants to update your front porch.
  • Tidy up garden beds and replace any dead plant material.
  • Solar-powered pathway and deck lights are easy to install and will enhance your yard's ambiance.
  • Paint exterior woodwork:  window and door frames, garage doors.
  • Power-wash your deck and give it a fresh coat of stain.

Add Crown Molding or Trim

  • Crown molding or baseboard trim adds a polished, sophisticated look to any room.
  • You can install pre-cut molding yourself with basic tools like a miter saw and a nail gun.

Upgrade Doors

  • Paint or refinish interior doors for a fresh look.
  • Swap out old doorknobs or handles for modern ones in sleek finishes like matte black or brushed nickel.
  • Add barn doors to closets or pantries for a stylish, space-saving option.

Install a New Backsplash

  • Installing a tile backsplash is a more advanced DIY project but still manageable with the right tools.
  • Subway tiles or small mosaic tiles are popular options that look great in kitchens and bathrooms.

Accent Walls

  • Wood Paneling: Create an accent wall using wood plank flooring. Looks great and adds warmth behind a media wall in the basement rec room.
  • Add wallpaper for a unique design to small spaces like foyers and powder rooms.
  • Gallery Wall: Display framed artwork, photos, or mirrors in an organized gallery wall layout.

Window Treatments

  •  Replace old blinds with modern shades or curtains. The addition of drapery, even just sheers adds warmth and texture.
  • Install new curtain rods and hardware to enhance the overall aesthetic.

Tips for Success

  • Start Small: Focus on one room or project at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  • Style:  Be consistent with new fixtures and finishes for a cohesive overall aesthetic.  But generally speaking if you are updating and upgrading, it is best to choose modern and the best quality your budget allows.
  • Use Quality Tools: Invest in good tools for a professional finish, even for a DIY project.
  • Measure Twice, Cut Once: Precision is key for a successful project.
  • Watch Tutorials: If you’re new to DIY, there are plenty of online tutorials that can guide you step-by-step through each project.
  • Ask for Help:  Consult staff in your local building supply stores.  They have a wealth of expertise. 
  • Ask a real estate agent which type of project you should focus on.  This is a good way of interviewing them!

These DIY projects can help modernize your home and increase its value, all while saving money!